Subsea connector

ABSTRACT

There is disclosed a subsea connector ( 100 ), e.g. a mooring connector, and a method of mooring a subsea structure to a line, e.g. a mooring chain, with the subsea connector. The subsea connector comprises a first portion ( 105 ) and a second portion ( 110 ), means for connecting ( 120 ) the first portion and the second portion, and means for rotationally aligning the first portion and the second portion. The first and second portions are connectable to a respective line, such as a respective mooring chain. The means for rotationally aligning comprise a first alignment member at least partly spanning across a bore, such as an internal bore, of the first or second portion. The means for rotationally aligning comprise a second alignment member provided by the other of the first or second portion. The first and second alignment members co-act when the first and second portions are brought together or mated.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates to a connector, and particularly, though not exclusively, to a subsea or underwater connector, e.g. for connecting a line or lines such as in the installation, mooring, anchoring or the like of apparatus or equipment.

BACKGROUND TO INVENTION

In order to connect a line or lines, e.g. wire, chain or synthetic (such as polyester), lines for the installation, mooring or anchoring of equipment used subsea or underwater, e.g. in oil, gas, offshore wind and tidal energy industries, there needs to be a means of connecting and disconnecting the line or lines. Uses include installing a small subsea structure which can be lifted from the rear or back of a boat or from a rig and lowered to the sea-bed, through to permanent mooring of a floating production structure. On top-side this is straight-forward; however, when subsea beyond diver depth there needs to be a means or device such that a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) may both connect and disconnect the line. There are several such devices known in the art. However, these suffer from a number of short-comings or disadvantages. Even when not operating beyond diver depth, such a device may be desired, since many operators do not want to use divers even where practical. There is therefore a need for a new, simple, robust and easy to use connector.

A known device is the Delmar Subsea Connector as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,158,093 (DELMAR SYSTEMS, INC.), the content of which is incorporated herein by reference. The Delmar connector requires buoyancy/heave compensation for installation, and is manufactured as a casting which rules such out of some projects. Further, the Delmar connector has no inherent alignment and is similar to a loose shackle.

Another known type of connector is the so-called ball and taper connector. Such are commercially available from Balltec Limited (www.balltec.com) as MoorLok™ and from First Subsea Limited (www.firstsubsea.com) as Ballgrab™. The Balltec connector is described in WO 2006/109065 A1, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Ball and taper connectors utilise the ball and taper principle as schematically illustrated in FIG. 1. The ball and taper connector 5 comprises a male portion or mandrel 10 and a female portion or receptacle 15. The male portion 10 carries a ball cage 20 and a plurality of balls 25. When the male portion 10 and ball cage 20 enter the female portion 15 and (longitudinal) load is applied, the balls 25 contact an inner face 30 of the female portion 15. A resultant (radial) force is produced and a connection formed between the male portion 10 and female portion 15. If the load is removed, the ball cage 20 is drawn back, the balls 25 lose contact with the female portion 15, and the connection separates.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a connector, such as a subsea, mooring or underwater connector, comprising a first portion and a second portion, means for connecting the first portion and the second portion, and means for rotationally aligning the first portion and the second portion.

The first and second portions may be connectable to a respective line, such as a respective mooring chain.

The means for rotationally aligning the first and second portion may comprise means carried by or provided on the first and/or second portion. The means for rotationally aligning may comprise a first alignment member at least partly spanning across a bore, such as an internal bore, of the first or second portion. The first alignment member may be partially transverse to the bore with respect to a longitudinal axis of the first or second portion.

The means for rotationally aligning may comprise a second alignment member, such as a rotational alignment member, provided by the other of the first or second portion. The first and second alignment members may co-act when the first and second portions are brought together or mated.

The first portion may comprise a male part.

The second portion may comprise a female part.

The means for connecting may comprise means for releasably connecting.

The means for rotationally aligning the first portion and the second portion may comprise first and second means carried by or provided on the first and second portions, respectively. The first and second means may comprise the first and second alignment members, respectively.

The first and second means may co-act, in use, when the first and second portions are brought together or mated.

The first means may comprise at least one first surface. The second means may comprise at least one second surface. An at least one first surface(s) and a second surface may abut one another and/or rotate with respect to one another around a longitudinal axis and/or ride-over one another when the first and second portions are longitudinally brought together or mated.

The first means may comprise at least a first prong or tooth, and advantageously first and second prongs or teeth. The first and second prongs or teeth may be diametrically or width-wise opposite one another, i.e. disposed on opposite sides of or along a common diameter or width. Each prong or tooth may be disposed on a respective radial portion of an end of the first means. A slot or recess portion may be provided between the first and second prongs or teeth.

The male part may comprise a cylindrical portion, e.g. a cylindrical mid-portion. The female part may comprise a bore, e.g. a cylindrical bore, e.g. within which the cylindrical portion is received in a substantially tight or snug fit.

The second means may comprise an elongate or cross member or alignment bar. The elongate member may at least partly span, e.g. diametrically span, the female part, e.g. the bore. The elongate member may comprise an outer (upper) facing curved surface and may be substantially cylindrical or elliptical in cross-section.

In use, insertion of the male part into the female part may cause the first means and second means to rotationally co-act or ride over one another, thereby relatively (longitudinally) rotating the male part and the female part into a pre-selected or pre-determined rotational disposition.

The first prong or tooth, and where provided second prong or tooth, may provide the at least one first surface, which may comprise an outer surface thereof.

The/each prong or teeth/tooth may comprise one or more of:

a first chamfered, sloping or angled side surface, a second chamfered, sloping or angled side surface (preferably disposed symmetrically with the first side surface), a flat/planar inner surface which may comprise a surface of the slot, and a curved outer surface. The flat planar inner surface may taper or flare outwards towards an end of the prong or tooth.

A first side surface of a first tooth may be continuous with a first side surface of a second tooth. A second side surface of a first tooth may be continuous with a second side surface of the second tooth.

The elongate member may provide the at least second surface, which may comprise an outer surface thereof, e.g. said outer (upper) facing curved surface.

Once in the pre-selected rotational disposition the first and second prongs may be disposed on respective first and second sides of the elongate member. A portion of the male part between the prongs or teeth (e.g. a root or web portion), e.g. base of the slot portion may be adjacent or in contact, e.g. abutting contact, with the elongate member.

The means for connecting the first portion and the second portion may comprise a first aperture in the male part, e.g. diametrically or width-wise spanning the cylindrical portion of the male part.

The means for connecting the first portion and the second portion may comprise at least one second aperture, e.g. a pair of diametrically opposed apertures, in the female part.

The means for connecting the first portion and the second portion may comprise a pin, e.g. a load (bearing) pin, removably receivable within the first and second apertures when such are aligned.

Beneficially, the first and second apertures are aligned in said pre-selected rotational disposition.

In use, an ROV (remotely operated vehicle) may be used to mate and/or release the first and second parts, e.g. subsea/underwater, and/or to insert and/or remove the pin.

The pin may have a tapered end, which may facilitate insertion thereof into the apertures.

Beneficially, the first portion, second portion and/or pin may be made from a metal or metallic material. Beneficially the first portion, second portion and/or pin are made by forging. A distal end of each of the first portion and the second portion may comprise means for connecting to the line. Alternatively, the line may be wire, synthetic (e.g. polyester). The line connection means may comprise a clevis fastener, e.g. comprising a clevis, clevis pin and tang.

A perimeter of the first aperture may comprise a first perimeter portion and a second perimeter portion.

The second perimeter portion may be provided closer to an end of the first portion than the first perimeter portion.

The first perimeter portion may comprise a portion of the circumference of a first circle (of the radius R₁).

The second perimeter portion may comprise a portion of the circumference of a second circle (of radius R₂).

Beneficially R₁ may be greater than R₂.

A centre of the second circle may be closer to an end of the first portion than a centre of the first circle may be to the end of the first portion.

A perimeter of the second aperture(s) may comprise the circumference of a third circle (of radius R₃).

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a connector, such as a subsea connector, comprising a male part and a female part and a pin for releasably connecting the male part and the female part together.

The male part may comprise a first portion.

The female part may comprise a second portion.

The male part may comprise a first aperture, e.g. diametrically or width-wise, spanning the male part, e.g. a cylindrical portion of the male part.

The female part may comprise at least one second aperture, e.g. a pair of diametrically opposed apertures. The pin may be removably insertable with the first and second apertures, e.g. when the first and second apertures are rotationally aligned.

A perimeter of the first aperture may comprise a first perimeter portion and a second perimeter portion.

The second perimeter portion may be provided closer to an end of the first portion than the first perimeter portion.

The first perimeter portion may comprise a portion of the circumference of a first circle (of the radius R₁).

The second perimeter portion may comprise a portion of the circumference of a second circle (of radius R₂).

Beneficially R₁ may be greater than R₂.

A centre of the second circle may be closer to an end of the first portion than a centre of the first circle may be to the end of the first portion.

A perimeter of the second aperture(s) may comprise the circumference of a third circle (of radius R₃).

Optional features of the second aspect may comprise features of the first aspect, whether taken alone or in combination with the first aspect, and such features are not repeated herein merely for reasons of brevity.

According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a first portion according to the first aspect, or a male part according to the second aspect of the present invention.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a second portion according to the first aspect, or a female part according to the second aspect of the present invention.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention there is provided a subsea, underwater or offshore equipment, apparatus or structure moored, anchored or fixed by one or more lines, at least one of the lines comprising at least one connector according to at least one of the first or second aspects of the present invention.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of mooring, anchoring or fixing a subsea, underwater or offshore equipment, apparatus or structure by one or more lines comprising the step of connecting at least one of said lines with a connector according to the first or second aspect of the present invention.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention there is provided a locking device, e.g. a pin locking device, for a connector, such as a subsea or underwater connector, comprising:

means for locking the device relative to the connector.

Preferably, the locking device locks a pin relative to or within at least part of the connector.

Preferably, the locking means comprise releasable locking means.

Preferably, the locking means comprise:

a first locking portion and a second locking portion; and means for connecting the first locking portion and the second locking portion. The means for connecting may be operable between an engaged configuration wherein the first and second locking portions are engaged and a disengaged configuration wherein the first and second locking portions are disengaged.

There may be provided means for rotationally aligning the first and second locking portions.

Preferably, the locking device comprises means for retaining the first and second locking portion in the engaged configuration.

The first locking portion may comprise a further male part.

The second locking portion may comprise a further female part.

The means for connecting may comprise means for releasably connecting.

The means for connecting may comprise means for rotationally aligning the first and second locking portion. The means for connecting may further comprise first and second connecting means carried by or provided on the first and second locking portion, respectively.

The means for connecting may be configured as an inter-engaging coupling arrangement. Preferably, the inter-engaging coupling arrangement may be a bayonet type fitting or connection, e.g. a sprung bayonet fitting or connection.

The means for retaining may comprise means for releasably retaining the first and second locking portion in an engaged configuration.

The first and second connecting means may co-act, in use, when the first and second locking portions are brought together or mated.

The further male part may comprise at least one first surface. The further female part may comprise at least one second surface. An at least one first surface and a second surface may abut and/or rotate with respect one another around a longitudinal axis and/or ride-over one another when the first and second locking portions are longitudinally brought together or mated.

The first connection means may comprise at least one radially projection, such as a locking pin, and advantageously first and second locking pins. The first and second locking pins may be diametrically or width-wise opposite one another, i.e. disposed on opposite sides of or along a common diameter or width. Each locking pin may be disposed on a respective radial portion of the first locking portion. The locking pins may be round.

The second connection means may comprise at least one recess, such as a slot, and advantageously first and second slots. The first and second slots may be diametrically or width-wise opposite one another, i.e. disposed on opposite sides of or along a common diameter or width. Each slot may be disposed on a respective radial portion of the second portion.

The further male part may be cylindrical. The further female part may be a cylindrical tubular or sleeve within which the male part is received in a substantially tight or snug fit.

The first locking portion may be mounted rotatable on either a first or second end of the pin. The first locking portion may be sprung. At least one resilient member may pre-dispose the first locking portion longitudinally outwards with respect to the pin. The resilient member may be a spring.

The first locking portion may further comprise an operating portion, such as a handle or grip. The operating portion may be configured to rotate the first locking portion around a longitudinal axis with respect to the second locking portion.

A second portion of the connector may be held by a connection arrangement, such as a receiving cradle. The receiving cradle may comprise the second locking portion.

In use, inserting the pin into the connector may comprise rotationally aligning the first locking portion with respect to the second locking portion into a pre-selected rotational disposition. Once, in the pre-selected rotational disposition, the further male and female part may be brought together by actuating the operating portion longitudinally inwards with respect to the pin. The first locking pin may be disposed in the first slot, and advantageously the second locking pin may be disposed in the second slot. The first and/or second slots may be configured as to provide an engaged and a disengaged configuration of the locking device.

The first and second locking pins may be indexed in the first and second slot, respectively, by rotation of the operating portion around a longitudinal axis from the disengaged configuration into the engaged configuration or vice versa.

In the engaged configuration longitudinal movement of the further male with respect to the further female part may be inhibited.

In the disengaged configuration longitudinal movement of the further male with respect to the further female part may be allowed.

The means for retaining the first and second locking portion in an engaged configuration may cooperate with the further male and female part when the first and second locking portions are in the engaged configuration.

The means for retaining may comprise a blocking member. The blocking member may comprise at least one further radially projection. The at least one further radially projection may be a blocking pin. The blocking pin may be removably receivable within the first or second slot of the further female part.

The blocking member may be either in a blocking position or in a non-blocking position.

In the blocking position the blocking pin may be engaged with either the first or second slot of the further female part. In the non-blocking position the blocking pin may be disengaged from the first or second slot of the further female part.

Once, the first and second locking portions are in the engaged configuration, the blocking member may be actuated into the blocking position. Preferably, the blocking pin may retain the pin locking device in the engaged configuration by preventing the first and second locking pins from disengaging with the first and second slots, respectively.

The blocking member may comprise at least one surface. The at least one surface of the blocking member may abut an at least one first surface of the second locking portion when the blocking member cooperates with the further male and further female part in the blocked position.

The blocking member may be sprung. At least one resilient may actuate the blocking member into the blocked position. The at least one resilient member may be at least one spring.

The receiving cradle may further comprise a docking station.

The blocking member may engage with the docking station. The blocking member may comprise means for engaging with the docking station.

The docking station may comprise means for disposing the blocking member in the non-blocking position. The means for disposing the blocking member in the non-blocking position may hold the blocking member in a vertical orientation for cooperation with the first and second locking portions.

Preferably, disengagement of the blocking member from the means for disposing of the docking station may actuate the blocking member into the blocking position.

The locking device of the seventh aspect of the present invention, and any of the optional or preferable features thereof may find utility in any of the foregoing aspects of the present invention.

According to a eighth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of securing a connection arrangement of a connector, such as a subsea or underwater connector, comprising the steps of providing a locking device, such as a pin locking device, and locking the device relative to the connector according to the seventh aspect of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

An embodiment of the present invention will now be described by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are:

FIG. 1 a schematic cross-sectional view of part of a ball and taper connector according to the prior art;

FIG. 2 a perspective cross-sectional view of a connector according to an embodiment of the present invention prior to connection;

FIG. 3 a perspective view of a first portion of the connector of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 a further perspective view of the first portion of the connector of FIG. 2 rotated through 90° with respect to FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 a perspective view of a second portion of the connector of FIG. 2;

FIG. 6 a schematic view of a second portion of the connector of FIG. 2 mounted on a suction pile;

FIG. 7 a schematic view of the connector of FIG. 2 mounted on the suction pile of FIG. 6 with the first portion received by and within the second portion;

FIG. 8 a schematic view of the connector of FIG. 2 mounted on a suction pile with the first portion received by and within the second portion and connection means in place;

FIG. 9 a schematic view similar to FIG. 8 with retention means removed;

FIG. 10 a schematic view of the connector deployed;

FIG. 11 a schematic view of the suction pile and a line connected thereto;

FIG. 12 a side view of a modified first portion according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 13 a perspective view of a first locking portion of a locking device according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 14 a perspective view of the first locking portion of FIG. 13 in an engaged configuration with a second locking portion of the locking device;

FIG. 15 a perspective view of a blocking member engaged with the first and second locking portions of FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 a perspective top view of the blocking member of FIG. 14;

FIG. 17 an exploded assembly view of the locking device with respect to a receiving cradle;

FIG. 18 a perspective view of a docking station;

FIG. 19 (a) a top view of the receiving cradle of FIG. 17;

FIG. 19 (c) a further side view of the receiving cradle of FIG. 17; and

FIG. 19 (d) a cross-sectional view along a line A-A of FIG. 19 (b).

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Referring to FIGS. 2 to 5, there is shown a connector, particularly a subsea or underwater connector, generally designated 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The connector 100 comprises a first portion 105 and a second portion 110, means 115 for connecting the first portion 105 and the second portion 110, and means 120 for rotationally aligning the first portion 105 and the second portion 110.

The first portion 105 comprises a male part 125. The second portion 110 comprises a female part 130. The means 120 for connecting comprises means for releasably connecting. The means 120 for rotationally aligning the first portion 105 and the second portion 110 comprises first and second means 135,140 carried by or provided on the first and second portions 105,110, respectively. The first and second means 135,140 co-act, in use, when the first and second portions 105,110 are brought together or mated.

The first means 135 comprises at least one first surface. The second means 140 comprises at least one second surface. In use, the first surface(s) and the second surface(s) abut and rotate with respect to one another and/or ride over one another around a longitudinal axis when the first and second portions 105,110 are longitudinally brought together.

In this embodiment the first means 135 comprises first and second prongs or teeth 145,150. The first and second prongs or teeth 145,150 are diametrically or width-wise opposed to one another. Also in this embodiment the first and second prongs or teeth 145,150 are shaped as described hereinbelow. A slot portion 151 is provided between the first and second prongs or teeth 145,150.

The male part 125 comprises a cylindrical mid portion 155. The female part 130 comprises a cylindrical bore 160.

The second means 140 comprises an elongate member 140 (or alignment bar). The elongate member 140 spans at least partly, e.g. diametrically spans, the cylindrical bore 160 and the female part 130. The elongate member 140 is partially transverse to the bore 160 of the female part 130. The elongate member 140 comprises an outer facing curved surface, and in this embodiment is substantially cylindrical in cross-section.

In use, insertion of the male part 125 into the female part 130 causes the first means 135 and second means 140 to rotationally co-act and/or ride over one another, thereby relatively rotating the male part 125 and the female part 130 into a pre-selected rotational disposition. The first and second prongs or teeth 145,150 provide the at least one first surface, i.e. in this embodiment a pair of first surfaces, which comprise outer surfaces thereof. The/each prong or tooth comprises: a first chamfered or sloping side surface 154 a, a second chamfered or sloped side surface 154 b, a flat inner surface 154 c, and a curved outer surface 154 d.

The elongate member 140 provides the at least one second surface which comprises an outer surface thereof.

Once in the pre-selected rotational disposition, the first and second prongs or teeth 145,150 are disposed respective first and second sides of the elongate member 140. A portion 165 of the male part 125 between the prongs or teeth 145,150 (e.g. a web portion), e.g. base of the slot portion, is adjacent or in contact, e.g. abutting contact, with the elongate member 140.

The means 115 for connecting the first portion 105 and the second portion 110 comprise a first aperture 120 in the male part 125, e.g. diametrically or width-wise spanning the cylindrical portion 155 of the male part 125. The means 115 for connecting the first portion 105 and the second portion 110 comprise at least one second aperture 175, e.g. a pair of diametrically or width-wise opposed apertures, in the female part 130. The means 115 for connecting the first portion 105 and the second portion 110 comprise a pin 180, e.g. a load (bearing) pin, removably receivable within the first and second apertures 170,175 when such are aligned in said pre-selected disposition.

Beneficially, the first and second apertures 170,175 are aligned in said pre-selected rotational disposition. The pin 180 can be releasably retained in the apertures 170,175, e.g. by interacting screw threads and/or a tang (not shown).

In use, an ROV (remotely operated vehicle) can be used to mate (and/or release) the first and second portions 105,110, e.g. subsea/underwater and/or to insert (and/or remove) the pin 180. The pin 180 has a tapered end, which can facilitate insertion thereof into the aligned apertures 170,175.

Beneficially, the first portion 105, second portion 110 and/or pin 180 are made from a metal or metallic material. Beneficially the first portion 105, second portion 110 and/or pin 180 are made by forging.

Distal ends 185,190 of each of the first portion 105 and the second portion 110 comprises means 195,196 for connecting to line. Referring to FIG. 9, the line 200 can be wire, chain, synthetic (e.g. polyester). The line connection means 195,196 comprises a clevis fastener, e.g. comprising a clevis, clevis pin and tang.

The connector 100 comprises male part 125 and female part 130 and a pin 180 for releasably connecting the male part 125 and the female part 130 together. The male part 125 comprises a first portion 105. The female part 130 comprises a second portion 110.

Referring now to FIGS. 6 to 10, there is shown a subsea, underwater or offshore equipment, apparatus or structure 300 moored, anchored or fixed by one or more lines 200, at least one of the lines 200 comprising at least one connector 100.

In use, a method of mooring, anchoring or fixing an offshore equipment, apparatus or structure 300 with one or more lines 200 comprises the step of connecting at least one of the said lines 200 with or by a connector 100.

Referring initially to FIG. 6, the second portion 110 of the connector 10 of FIG. 2 is mounted on a suction pile 300. The portion of a line extends from the second portion 110 of the connector to a base portion of the suction pile 300. The second portion 110 is retained by retaining pins in a retaining cradle 305. The second portion 110 is further provided with an outer cylindrical housing 197 having an upper end thereof an open inverted frusto-conical portion or guide cone 198 which communicates with the female part.

The guide cone 198 assists in lowering the male part 125 into the female part 130. The receiving cradle 305 comprises spaced support means in order to assist receiving or parking the female part 130 in the receiving cradle on the side of the suction pile. The receiving cradle 305 holds the female part 130 securely on the suction pile 300 as the pile 300 is lifted to the sea-bed and holds such in a vertical orientation for insertion of the male part 125.

Referring to FIG. 7, the male part 125 is presented to the female part 130, and the male part 125 being connected to a second portion of the line.

Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, a locking pin 180 is inserted into the aligned apertures of the first and second parts 125,130 so as to connect them together.

Referring to FIG. 9, retaining means or retaining pins 310 are removed so as to allow release of the second part 130 from the retaining cradle.

Referring to FIG. 11, the line 200 comprising the first portion of line and second portion of line connected by the connector 10 can then be deployed, so as to anchor the offshore equipment apparatus or structure via the suction pile 300.

Referring to FIG. 11, it can be seen that the first portion of the line is connected to the suction pile 300 via a welded pad eye.

Referring now to FIG. 12, there is shown a side view of a modified first portion 105′ according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention.

In this alternative embodiment a perimeter of the first aperture comprises a first perimeter portion 300′ and a second perimeter portion 305′. The second perimeter portion 305′ is provided closer to an end of the male part 1205′ than the first perimeter portion 300′.

The first perimeter portion 300′ comprises a portion of the circumference of a first circle (of the radius R₁). The second perimeter portion 305′ comprises a portion of the circumference of a second circle (of radius R2). Beneficially R₁ is greater than R₂.

A centre X₂ of the second circle is closer to an end of the male part 125′ than a centre X₁ of the first circle is to the end of the male portion 125′.

A perimeter of the second aperture(s) comprises the circumference of a third circle (of radius R3).

In use, when the first portion 105′ is lowered into the receptacle, the second aperture of the female portion is in axial alignment with the centre X₁ of the portion of the first aperture with larger radius R₁. This provides for relatively large clearance between the first portion 105′ and the pin, which facilitates for ease of installation of the pin.

When the connector 100 is tensioned and under load, the first portion 105′ moves back out of the receptacle by an offset amount, i.e. a distance between centre X₁ of the first circle and centre X₂ of second circle. The pin then contacts second perimeter portion of radius R₂. This acts to increase a contact area between the pin and first portion 105′, in use, when under load. Such acts to reduce contact stress between the first portion 105′ and the pin and/or provides for longer fatigue life in use.

Referring to FIGS. 13 to 17, there is shown a locking device, which is a pin locking device, for a connector 600, particularly a subsea or underwater connector, generally designated 400 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The locking device 400 comprises means 401 for locking the device 400 relative to the connector 600. The locking device 400 locks a pin 480 relative to or within at least part of the connector.

The locking means 401 comprise releasable locking means 401. The locking means 401 comprise a first locking portion 405 and a second locking portion 410, and means 415 for connecting the first locking portion 405 and the second locking portion 410. The means 415 for connecting are operable between an engaged configuration wherein the first and second locking portions 405, 410 are engaged and a disengaged configuration wherein the first and second locking portions 405, 410 are disengaged. There are provided means 415 for rotationally aligning the first and second locking portions 405, 410.

The locking device 400 further comprises means 420 for retaining the first and second locking portion 405, 410 in the engaged configuration.

The first locking portion 405 comprises a further male part 425. The second locking portion comprises a further female part 430. The means 415 for connecting comprise means for releasably connecting. The means 415 for connecting comprise the means 415 for rotationally aligning the first and second locking portion 405, 410. The means for connecting 415 further comprise first and second connecting means 435, 440 carried by or provided on the first and second locking portion 405, 410, respectively.

The means 415 for connecting are configured as an inter-engaging coupling arrangement 445. The inter-engaging coupling arrangement is a bayonet type fitting or connection which is a sprung bayonet fitting or connection 445 in this embodiment. FIG. 14 shows the sprung bayonet fitting 445.

The means 420 for retaining comprise means 420 for releasably retaining the first and second locking portion 405, 410 in an engaged configuration.

The first and second connecting means 435, 440 co-act, in use, when the first and second locking portions 405, 410 are brought together or mated.

The further male part 425 comprises at least one first surface 450. The further female part 430 comprises at least one second surface 455. An at least one first surface 450 and a second surface 455 abut and/or rotate with respect one another around a longitudinal axis and/or ride-over one another when the first and second locking portions 405, 410 are longitudinally brought together or mated.

In this embodiment the first means 435 comprise first and second locking pins 460. The first and second locking pins 460 are diametrically or width-wise opposite one another, i.e. disposed on opposite sides of or along a common diameter or width. Each locking pin 460 is disposed on a respective radial portion of the further male part 425. The locking pins 460 are round.

In this embodiment the second means 440 comprise first and second slots 465. The first and second slots 465 are diametrically or width-wise opposite one another, i.e. disposed on opposite sides of or along a common diameter or width. Each slot 465 is disposed on a respective radial portion of the further female part 430. The first and second slots exhibit a J-shape.

The further male part 425 is cylindrical. The further female part 430 is a cylindrical tubular or sleeve within which the male part 425 is received in a substantially tight or snug fit.

The first locking portion 405 is mounted rotatable on either a first or second end of the pin 480. The first locking portion 405 is sprung. At least one resilient member (not shown) pre-disposes the first locking portion 405 longitudinally outwards with respect to the pin 480. The resilient member is a spring (not shown).

In this embodiment the first locking portion 405 further comprises a handle or grip 475. The handle or grip 475 is configured to rotate the first locking portion 405 around a longitudinal axis with respect to the second locking portion 410.

Referring to FIG. 17, there is shown an exploded assembly view of the locking device 400 with respect to a receiving cradle 705. A second portion 610 of the connector 600 is held by the receiving cradle 705. The receiving cradle 705 further comprises the second locking portion 410. The second locking portion 410 is retained by retaining means or retaining pins 485 in a pin receiving portion 490 of the receiving cradle 705.

In use, an ROV can be used to insert the pin 480 into the connector 600. Inserting of the pin 480 into the connector 600 comprises rotationally aligning the first locking portion 405 with respect to the second locking portion 410 into a pre-selected rotational disposition. Once, in the pre-selected rotational disposition, the further male and female part 425, 430 may be brought together by actuating the handle or grip 475 longitudinally inwards with respect to the pin.

The first locking pin 460 may be disposed in the first slot 465, and the second locking pin 460 may be disposed in the second slot 465. The first and/or second slots 465 are configured as to provide an engaged and a disengaged configuration of the locking device 400.

The first and second locking pins 460 are indexed in the first and second slot 465, respectively, by rotation of the handle or grip around a longitudinal axis from the disengaged configuration into the engaged configuration or vice versa.

Beneficially, in the engaged configuration longitudinal movement of the further male part 425 with respect to the further female part 430 is inhibited. The engaged configuration of the pin locking device 400 is shown in FIG. 14. In the disengaged configuration longitudinal movement of the further male part 425 with respect to the further female part 430 is allowed.

Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, the means 420 for retaining the first and second locking portion 405, 410 in an engaged configuration cooperate with the further male and female part 425, 430 when the first and second locking portion 405, 410 are in the engaged configuration. The means 420 for retaining comprise a blocking member 495. In this embodiment the blocking member 495 comprises a blocking pin 505. The blocking pin 505 is removably receivable within the first or second slot 460 of the further female part 430.

The blocking member 495 is either in a blocking position or in a non-blocking position. In the blocking position the blocking pin 505 engages with either the first or second slot 460 of the further female part 430. The blocking position of the blocking member 495 is shown in FIGS. 15 and 16. In the non-blocking position the blocking pin 505 is disengaged from the first or second slot 460 of the further female part 430.

Once, the first and second locking portions 405, 410 are in the engaged configuration, the blocking member 495 is actuated into the blocking position. The blocking pin 505 retains the locking device 400 in the engaged configuration by preventing the first and second locking pins 460 from disengaging with the first and second slots 465, respectively, as shown in FIGS. 15 and 16.

The blocking member 495 comprises at least one surface 510. The at least one surface 510 abuts an at least one first surface 511 of the second locking portion 410 when the blocking member 495 cooperates with the further male 425 and further female part 430 in the blocked position. The blocking member 495 is sprung. At least one resilient member 515 actuates the blocking member 495 into the blocking position. The at least one resilient member 515 is at least one spring 515.

The receiving cradle 705 further comprises a docking station 520. The blocking member 495 engages with a docking station 520. The blocking member further comprises means 525 for engaging with the docking station. The means 525 of the blocking member are at least one recess 525 provided on either end of the blocking member 495.

Referring to FIG. 18, there is shown a perspective view of the docking station 520. The docking station 520 comprises means 530 for disposing the blocking member 495 in the non-blocking position. The means 530 for disposing the blocking member in the non-blocking position hold the blocking member 495 in a vertical orientation for cooperation with the first and second locking portions 405, 410. The means 530 for disposing the blocking member in the non-blocking position are at least one elongate protrusion or plate 530. Disengagement of the blocking member 495 from the at least one elongate protrusion or plate 530 of the docking station 520 actuates the blocking member 495 into the blocking position. The at least one spring 515 actuates and subsequently holds the blocking member 495 in the blocking position.

Referring now to FIGS. 19 (a) to 19 (d) and also FIG. 17, it can be seen that retaining pins 535 mount the blocking member 495 within the receiving cradle 705.

In FIGS. 19 (a) to (d), the pin 480 is inserted into the second portion 610 of the connector 600. The locking device 400 provides an additional locking arrangement of the pin 480 relative to the connector 600, when the first and second portions 605, 610 are connected (not shown).

It will also be appreciated that the embodiments of the present invention hereinbefore described are given by way of example only, and are not meant to limit the scope of the invention in any way.

The present invention provides particular advantage over the prior art, in that it provides ‘top entry’ connection, i.e. the male part is inserted within the female part in a vertical disposition, which facilitates particular ease of connection. It will also be understood that the connector of the present invention provides a structural load bearing element. Further, the locking device of the present invention provides an additional security arrangement of the connection.

While the disclosed embodiment discloses use of a suction pile, it will be appreciated that other types of anchors can be used, such as driven piles and drag embedment anchors, and suction embedded anchors, torpedo anchors, or the like.

It will be appreciated that the present invention may be advantageous or beneficial, since as the offshore industry moves to ultra-deep waters, new mooring technology is beneficial, e.g. for mobile offshore drilling units (MODUs), and deep water production vessels (FOSOs, FSOs, TiPs and Spars). The connector of the invention provides a disconnectable, permanent subsea mooring connector which allows operators to change out mooring components with an anchor handling vessel (AHV) without having to unseat an anchor. 

1. A subsea connector, such as a mooring connector, comprising a first portion and a second portion, means for connecting the first portion and the second portion, and means for rotationally aligning the first portion and the second portion
 2. The subsea connector as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first and second portions are connectable to a respective line, such as a respective mooring chain.
 3. The subsea connector as claimed in claim 1, wherein the means for rotationally aligning the first and second portions comprise means carried by or provided on the first and second portion.
 4. The subsea connector as claimed in claim 1, wherein the means for rotationally aligning comprise a first alignment member at least partly spanning across a bore, such as an internal bore, of the first or second portion.
 5. The subsea connector as claimed in claim 4, wherein the first alignment member is partially transverse to the bore with respect to a longitudinal axis of the first or second portion.
 6. The subsea connector as claimed in claim 1, wherein the means for rotationally aligning comprise a second alignment member, such as a rotational alignment member, provided by the other of the first or second portion.
 7. The subsea connector as claimed in claim 6, wherein the first and second alignment members may co-act when the first and second portions are brought together.
 8. The subsea connector as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first portion comprises a male part and the second portion comprises a female part.
 9. The subsea connector as claimed in claim 1, wherein the means for connecting comprise means for releasably connecting.
 10. The subsea connector as claimed in claim 1, wherein the means for rotationally aligning the first portion and the second portion comprise first and second means carried by or provided on the first and second portions.
 11. The subsea connector as claimed in claim 10, wherein the first and second means comprise the first and second alignment members, respectively.
 12. The subsea connector as claimed in claim 10, wherein the first and second means co-act when the first and second portions are brought together or mated.
 13. The subsea connector as claimed in claim 10, the first means comprise at least one first surface and the second means comprise at least one second surface.
 14. The subsea connector as claimed in claim 13, wherein an at least one first surface(s) and a second surface abut one another and/or rotate with respect to one another around a longitudinal axis and/or ride-over one another when the first and second portions are longitudinally brought together or mated.
 15. The subsea connector as claimed in claim 10, wherein the first means comprises first and second prongs or teeth.
 16. The subsea connector as claimed in claim 15, wherein the first and second prongs or teeth are diametrically or width-wise opposite one another, optionally, disposed on opposite sides of or along a common diameter or width.
 17. The subsea connector as claimed in claim 15, wherein each prong or tooth is disposed on a respective radial portion of an end of the first means.
 18. The subsea connector as claimed in claim 15, wherein a slot or recess portion is provided between the first and second prongs or teeth.
 19. The subsea connector as claimed in claim 8, wherein the male part comprises a cylindrical portion, and wherein the female part comprises a bore within which the cylindrical portion is received in a substantially tight or snug fit.
 20. The subsea connector as claimed in claim 10, wherein the second means comprise an elongate member.
 21. The subsea connector as claimed in claim 20, wherein the elongate member at least partly spans, such as diametrically spans, the female part, optionally the bore.
 22. The subsea connector as claimed in claim 8, wherein insertion of the male part into the female part causes the first means and second means to rotationally co-act or ride over one another, thereby relatively longitudinally rotating the male part and the female part into a pre-selected or pre-determined rotational disposition.
 23. The subsea connector as claimed in claim 22, wherein in the pre-selected rotational disposition the first and second prongs are disposed on respective first and second sides of the elongate member.
 24. The subsea connector as claimed in claim 22, wherein a portion of the male part between the prongs or teeth is adjacent or in contact with the elongate member.
 25. The subsea connector as claimed in claim 1, wherein the means for connecting the first portion and the second portion comprise a first aperture in the male part, spanning diametrically or width-wise the cylindrical portion of the male part.
 26. The subsea connector as claimed in claim 1, wherein the means for connecting the first portion and the second portion comprise at least one second aperture in the female part.
 27. The subsea connector as claimed in claim 25, wherein the means for connecting the first portion and the second portion comprise a pin, removably receivable within the first and second apertures when such are aligned.
 28. The subsea connector as claimed in claim 25, wherein the first and second apertures are aligned in said pre-selected rotational disposition.
 29. The subsea connector as claimed in claim 27, wherein a remotely operated vehicle is used to mate and/or release the first and second portions, and/or to insert and/or remove the pin.
 30. The subsea connector as claimed in claim 25, wherein a perimeter of the first aperture comprises a first perimeter portion and a second perimeter portion, and wherein the second perimeter portion is provided closer to an end of the first portion than the first perimeter portion.
 31. The subsea connector as claimed in claim 30, wherein the first perimeter portion comprises a portion of the circumference of a first circle (of the radius R₁, and wherein the second perimeter portion may comprise a portion of the circumference of a second circle (of radius R₂).
 32. The subsea connector as claimed in claim 31, wherein is greater than R₂.
 33. The subsea connector as claimed in claim 31, wherein a centre of the second circle is closer to an end of the first portion than a centre of the first circle is to the end of the first portion.
 34. The subsea connector as claimed in claim 26, wherein a perimeter of the second aperture(s) comprises the circumference of a third circle (of radius R₃). 35.-41. (canceled)
 42. A subsea structure moored by one or more lines, wherein at least one of the lines comprises at least one connector according to claim
 1. 43. A method of mooring a subsea structure by one or more lines comprising the step of connecting at least one of said lines with a connector according to claim
 1. 44.-51. (canceled) 